Sharon AI and New Era Helium are collaborating to build a 250 MW net-zero energy data centre in the Permian Basin, Texas. This project aims to combine advanced AI-driven infrastructure with sustainable energy solutions, showcasing how technology and environmental responsibility can work together effectively.
From Concept to Commitment
Originally envisioned as a 90 MW facility, the data center’s scope has expanded to 250 MW due to surging client demand. This shift reflects the escalating need for scalable, sustainable solutions in the era of artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.
Key Milestones Along the Way:
- Binding Agreement Secured: Sharon AI and New Era Helium formalized their collaboration with a binding Letter of Intent (LOI), setting a strong foundation for progress.
- Strategic Location: The Permian Basin was chosen for its abundant natural gas resources, ensuring a robust and sustainable energy supply.
- Decisive Steps Forward: A definitive joint venture agreement is on track for completion by December 23, 2024.
- Energy Framework: New Era Helium will deliver energy through a fixed-cost gas supply agreement, locking in stability for five years with optional extensions.
A Strategic Partnership for the AI Era
The partnership between Sharon AI and New Era Helium brings together artificial intelligence and energy production to address the growing demand for high-performance computing infrastructure. Initially announced as a 90 MW facility, the project was expanded to a 250 MW capacity after strong interest from potential clients. This development highlights the significance of their collaboration in meeting the power-intensive needs of AI technologies.
- Will Gray II, CEO of New Era Helium, emphasised, “This partnership underscores our dedication to innovative energy solutions. Together, we’re crafting a future-ready infrastructure that aligns with the digital age’s evolving demands.”
Sharon AI’s Role in Innovation
Sharon AI is leading the design and operation of the advanced data centre. With support from partners like NVIDIA and Lenovo, the company is building a liquid-cooled Tier III facility to ensure optimal performance for AI training and inference tasks, catering to the increasing demand for HPC services.
As Wolf Schubert, CEO of Sharon AI, stated, “This project marks a critical milestone. We’re advancing engineering plans and engaging with potential clients to bring this net-zero energy center to life.”
Clean Energy at Its Core: New Era Helium’s Contribution
New Era Helium’s expertise lies in sustainable energy production. The company is not just powering the data center but also constructing the required gas-fired power plant, incorporating CO2 capture technology to minimize environmental impact. With an extensive presence in the Permian Basin, New Era Helium ensures a reliable and eco-friendly energy supply, crucial for such a high-demand facility.
The gas supply agreement, part of the joint venture, ensures cost stability for five years, with extensions possible for up to 15 years. This long-term vision highlights the project’s commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability.
Why the Permian Basin?
The Permian Basin, known for its rich natural gas reserves, offers a prime location for this ambitious project. The region’s resources, combined with its strategic infrastructure, make it an ideal hub for a net-zero energy initiative. The data center is expected to attract interest from hyperscalers and large-scale energy consumers, further solidifying its importance in the tech and energy sectors.
Advancing Sustainable Data Infrastructure
The Sharon AI and New Era Helium partnership is focused on building a 250 MW net-zero energy data centre in Texas, designed to meet the growing demand for high-performance computing (HPC) and AI-driven technologies. Located in the Permian Basin, this initiative combines cutting-edge infrastructure with a sustainable energy approach. With the joint venture agreement set to be finalised by December 23, 2024, this project is positioned to become a model for future environmentally sustainable data centres.
